I believe Elk opened today,deer is Nov1.Most areas around here for deer is Thurs Fri sat only.You can check the hunter regs on line.
If you want to start you'll need a couple of buddy's,start putting in for draws for big game usually mid June.
Upland game has been dismal since we've had a couple of hard winters,however there are a few release sites in AB for pheasant.
Migratory birds have always been good and easy to get some.Most landowners will let you on to set up decoys and a blind.
As far as guns go a 30-06 is pretty popular for deer,12Ga shot gun that shoots steel shot is also the norm.
I wish i had more time to go hunting, i always enjoyed being out there even in minus 20.I really miss pheasant hunting but with no dog and not that many birds I'll have to wait another year.
Good luck in your new hobby.
Edit:
Some pics form the past.
back about 6 years ago seemed like every road you drove you would find some wild birds.
This one was a little to small.